Former Ilva and Whirlpool workers inaugurate Pietrelcina nativity scene

Two workers from the former Ilva steelworks in Taranto and two from Whirlpool in Naples, accompanied by their families, along with Mayor Domenico Masone, inaugurated the 2019 edition of the living nativity scene in Pietrelcina, the birthplace of Saint Pio. Recalling that the theme of this year's nativity scene is dedicated to health, work, and legality, Mayor Masone said that "Padre Pio's homeland wants to be the custodian of his spiritual message, which translates into love for one's neighbor, solidarity, and human dignity, also in keeping with the teachings of Pope Francis, who visited here, to remind us of the importance of sharing, generosity, and altruism that must characterize the present." "If Saint Pio grants our wish—not to lose our jobs—then we will all come on a pilgrimage here to Pietrelcina," the workers said in unison. Mass was celebrated by Msgr. Francesco Orazio Piazza, bishop of Sessa Aurunca.